Seismic techniques comprise the key geophysical toolset for imaging and characterising induced
changes in the subsurface associated with human activity. This ability to observe and quantify
changes in fluid saturation, pressure and geological stress and strain using active and passive
seismic techniques has critical application to the monitoring of geological CO2 storage.
The DiSECCS project (Diagnostic Seismic Toolbox for Efficient Control of CO2 Storage) has
developed seismic monitoring tools and methodologies to identify and characterise injectioninduced
changes, whether of fluid saturation or pressure, in storage reservoirs. We have
developed guidelines for the monitoring systems and protocols required to maintain the integrity
of storage reservoirs suitable for large-scale CO2 storage. The focus is on storage in saline
aquifers (comprising the largest potential global storage resource), where considerable amounts of
in situ water have to be displaced and both pressure and two-phase flow effects have
consequences for storage integrity and storage capacity. Underground storage of CO2 is associated
with significant levels of public concern. A better understanding of this is a key element of
establishing monitoring protocols to instil wider public confidence in CO2 storage. DiSECCS
draws on analogue activities, such as ‘fracking’ for shale gas, in conjunction with a discursive
process involving lay participants, to gain insights into how people engage with similar
underground activities and how controversies surrounding particular projects develop and evolve
